UFC on Fuel TV 7 Predictions: The Co-Main Event

The UFC’s featherweight division has never been so full of contenders, and this matchup will knock at least one of those fighters out of contention. This was originally supposed to be a bout between Dennis Siver and Cub Swanson, but an injury to Siver dropped him from the bout a month before the event. Luckily, Poirier was fresh off a submission victory over Jonathan Brookins and stepped up.

There is no doubt that on the feet Swanson has the advantage. Swanson may have lost his UFC debut to current contender Ricardo Lamas, but since that time he has TKO/KO’d George Roop, Ross Pearson and Charles Olivera. Poirier is a competent striker, but he is not on the level of Swanson. To be effective, he will need to use his three-inch reach advantage to keep Swanson away, and to more importantly stay away from his power.

Poirier’s best chance in the fight is to take it to the ground. He was submitted by Chan Sung Jung on the ground, but he has also gotten his last three wins by tap out as well. His long reach and legs make his body perfect for submissions. Swanson is proficient on the ground, having seven finishes by submission, but Poirier’s blend of wrestling and jiu-jitsu is his best chance at a finish.

The Bottom Line:

Poirier is the most complete fighter that Swanson has faced in a while. Poirier’s reach and size advantage will give him the edge in this fight, and that is where he will win it. Poirier by unanimous decision.